U.S. patent application number 13/417732 was filed with the patent office on 2012-10-04 for system for manufacturing emulsified/dispersed liquid.
Invention is credited to Mitsuru NAKANO.
Application Number | 20120250449 13/417732 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46927123 |
Filed Date | 2012-10-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120250449 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
NAKANO; Mitsuru |
October 4, 2012 |
SYSTEM FOR MANUFACTURING EMULSIFIED/DISPERSED LIQUID
Abstract
A system for manufacturing an emulsified/dispersed liquid has
first and second emulsification/dispersion devices which produce
the emulsified/dispersed liquid by emulsifying/dispersing
emulsification/dispersion material in a liquid mixture into a
medium liquid in the liquid mixture. A multistage
pressure/temperature control device of a multistage type cools the
emulsified/dispersed liquid discharged by the second
emulsification/dispersion device while applying a backpressure
which can prevent occurrence of bubbling to the first and second
emulsification/dispersion devices. The multistage
pressure/temperature control device reduces the pressure of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid gradually or in stages, and finally
lowers the pressure of the emulsified/dispersed liquid to a
pressure that bubbling is not caused if the
emulsification/dispersion liquid is released into an atmospheric
condition. The system can apply sufficient shearing force to the
liquid mixture so as to sufficiently atomize the
emulsification/dispersion material.
Inventors: |
NAKANO; Mitsuru; (Sakai-shi,
JP) |
Family ID: |
46927123 |
Appl. No.: |
13/417732 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
366/132 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01F 3/0807 20130101;
B01F 5/0647 20130101; B01F 3/2078 20130101; B01F 15/065 20130101;
B01F 3/2215 20130101; B01F 2215/0431 20130101; B01F 5/0655
20130101; B01F 13/1027 20130101; B01F 2215/0468 20130101; B01F
13/1016 20130101; B01F 5/0275 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
366/132 |
International
Class: |
B01F 15/02 20060101
B01F015/02; B01F 15/06 20060101 B01F015/06 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 17, 2011 |
JP |
2011-058760 |
Claims
1. A system for manufacturing an emulsified/dispersed liquid by
applying a shearing force to a liquid mixture containing a medium
liquid and an emulsification/dispersion material of solid state or
liquid state which is not soluble into the medium liquid so as to
emulsify or disperse the emulsification/dispersion material into
the medium liquid, the system comprising: a liquid mixture
supplying device for supplying the liquid mixture containing the
medium liquid and the emulsification/dispersion material; a liquid
mixture pressurizing device for pressurizing the liquid mixture
supplied by the liquid mixture supplying device and discharging the
pressurized liquid mixture therefrom; an emulsification/dispersion
device adapted to receive the pressurized liquid mixture discharged
by the liquid mixture pressurizing device and generate a jet flow
of the liquid mixture by transforming pressure energy of the liquid
mixture to kinetic energy so as to emulsify/disperse the
emulsification/dispersion material in the liquid mixture into the
medium liquid in the liquid mixture by means of the shearing force
generated by the jet flow to produce the emulsified/dispersed
liquid and discharge the emulsified/dispersed liquid therefrom; and
a multistage pressure/temperature control device adapted to receive
the emulsified/dispersed liquid discharged by the
emulsification/dispersion device and control temperature of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid while lowering the pressure of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid, and simultaneously to apply a
backpressure to the emulsified/dispersed liquid in the
emulsification/dispersion device, wherein the multistage
pressure/temperature control device comprises first to third
controllers which are arranged in series from the upstream side to
the downstream side with respect to a direction of a flow of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid, each of the first to third controllers
having a shell through which a heat transfer medium passes and a
heat transfer tube arranged in the shell, through which the
emulsified/dispersed liquid passes, the heat transfer tubes of the
first to third controllers are connected to one another in series,
and wherein the inner diameters, total lengths and general shapes
of the heat transfer tubes of the first to third controllers are
designed on the basis of the flow rate and viscosity of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid in the heat transfer tubes so as to
satisfy the relationship of
.DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2, wherein
.DELTA.P.sub.1, .DELTA.P.sub.2 and .DELTA.P.sub.3 are amounts of
pressure drops in the heat transfer tubes of the first to third
controllers, respectively.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inner diameters,
total lengths and general shapes of the heat transfer tubes of the
first to third controllers are designed in such a manner that the
emulsified/dispersed liquid flows in a laminar state within the
heat transfer tubes.
3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the inner diameters,
total lengths and general shapes of the heat transfer tubes of the
first to third controllers are designed in such a manner that the
emulsified/dispersed liquid flows in a turbulent state within the
heat transfer tubes.
4. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a heat
exchanger for heating or cooling the liquid mixture, which is
arranged between the liquid mixture supplying device and the liquid
mixture pressurizing device with respect to the direction of the
flow of the emulsified/dispersed liquid.
5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the liquid mixture
supplying device comprises a liquid mixture pump for pressurizing
and feeding the liquid mixture to the liquid mixture pressurizing
device through the heat exchanger.
6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the
emulsification/dispersion device comprises first to third pore
components each of which includes a pore having a small inner
diameter, the first to third pore components being arranged in
series from the upstream side to the downstream side with respect
to the direction of the flow of the emulsified/dispersed liquid in
such a manner that the pores of the first to third pore components
are connected to one another in series, and wherein the inner
diameters of the pores of the first to third pre components are
designed so as to satisfy the relationship of
d.sub.2>d.sub.1>d.sub.3, wherein d.sub.1, d.sub.2 and d.sub.3
are inner diameters of the pores of the first to third pore
components.
7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the
emulsification/dispersion device is composed of first and second
emulsification/dispersion devices which are connected to each other
in series.
8. The system according to claim 7, further comprising a first
agent feeder arranged at the downstream side of the first
emulsification/dispersion device, for adding a first additive agent
to the emulsified/dispersed liquid, and a second agent feeder
arranged at the downstream side of the second
emulsification/dispersion device, for adding a second additive
agent to the emulsified/dispersed liquid.
9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the medium liquid is
water.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a system for manufacturing
an emulsified/dispersed liquid by emulsifying or dispersing
predetermined materials into a medium liquid, in particular relates
to a system for manufacturing an emulsified/dispersed liquid by
applying a strong shearing force to a liquid mixture containing the
medium liquid and the emulsification/dispersion material of solid
state or liquid state which is not soluble into the medium liquid
so as to emulsify or disperse the emulsification/dispersion
material into the medium liquid fundamentally without using
surfactants.
[0002] Generally, various surfactants are used when producing
emulsified/dispersed liquid through emulsification or dispersion of
a solid or liquid material into the medium liquid. However, when
there is a possible human contact with the emulsified/dispersed
liquid (for example, when the liquid is in foods or cosmetics), the
surfactants may be harmful. To avoid the use of surfactants,
various emulsification/dispersion devices are proposed. These
devices focus on emulsifying or dispersing the medium liquid by
adding a strong shearing force to the liquid material of medium
liquid and liquid of solid form of emulsification/dispersion
material that does not dissolve in medium liquid (for example,
refer to JP 8-89774 A and WO 2003/059497).
[0003] With this type of emulsification/dispersion device, for
example, the "high pressured jet" version or the "rotary churning"
version of the emulsification/dispersion device is well known. For
instance, with the high pressured jet version of the
emulsification/dispersion device, highly pressured liquid mixture
is sprayed through a nozzle, creating a jet stream. This stream is
then clashed against the wall or turns around at the wall, and the
liquid/liquid junction converts the kinetic energy of the jet
stream into the shearing force energy required for the
emulsification/dispersion process.
[0004] However, if the strong shearing force is applied to the
liquid mixture in an unbalanced environment (namely, if an
unbalanced pressure or speed exists), then the dissolved gas or the
gas left within the medium liquid will turn into bubbles and the
liquid mixture will begin bubbling. Due to these bubbling,
excessive amounts of emulsification/dispersion material particles
will be produced. To prevent such occurrence, the
emulsification/dispersion device places back pressure on either the
liquid mixture or the emulsified/dispersed liquid, in order to
avoid bubbling from taking place.
[0005] Recent years at the market, highly emulsifible or
dispersible material of the emulsified/dispersed liquid (namely,
emulsified/dispersed liquid with extremely atomized
emulsification/dispersion material) is demanded. To produce such
liquid, a new emulsification/dispersion device is being developed.
This device applies higher pressure to either medium liquid or
liquid mixture in hopes of atomizing the emulsification/dispersion
material. The only flaw of this device is that the occurrence of
bubbling becomes a serious problem. Even though the increase of
back pressure upon the liquid mixture or the emulsified/dispersed
liquid prevented bubbling from occurring, this new process causes
bubbling to occur due to an instant pressure depletion when the
emulsified/dispersed liquid is drained from the
emulsification/dispersion device.
[0006] If bubbling occurs within the emulsified/dispersed liquid,
in the case of dispersing powder material on the medium liquid, air
bubbles will stick upon the powder surface, and the wettability of
the powder will worsen. In the case of emulsion, aerosol is easily
formed, and the quality as a product of emulsified/dispersed liquid
deteriorates. Also, energy losses will increase and energy
efficiency will worsen because the created air bubbles absorb
energy. In addition, if (for instance) an unsaturated fatty acid is
used as an emulsification/dispersion material, the material will
oxidize under the high temperature due to the oxygen within the air
bubble. As a result, the products' qualities will deteriorate.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention has been achieved to solve the
conventional problems described above. Thus, the present invention
has an object to provide a system for manufacturing an
emulsified/dispersed liquid, which can apply sufficient shearing
force to a liquid mixture containing a medium liquid and an
emulsification/dispersion material of liquid state or solid state
which is not soluble in the medium liquid so as to sufficiently
atomize the emulsification/dispersion material, hence can
.manufacture the emulsified/dispersed liquid of high quality with
preventing occurrence of bubbling.
[0008] A system for manufacturing an emulsified/dispersed liquid
according to the present invention which has been achieved to solve
the above-mentioned problems, applies a shearing force to a liquid
mixture containing a medium liquid (for example, water, methanol,
ethanol, mixture of these substances or the like) and an
emulsification/dispersion material of solid state or liquid state
which is not soluble into the medium liquid so as to emulsify or
disperse the emulsification/dispersion material (material to be
emulsified and/or material to be dispersed) into the medium liquid
so that the emulsified/dispersed liquid (emulsified liquid and/or
dispersed liquid) is manufactured. In a fundamental aspect of the
present invention, the system includes a liquid mixture supplying
device, a liquid mixture pressurizing device, an
emulsification/dispersion device and a multistage
pressure/temperature control device.
[0009] In the system for manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed
liquid according to the present invention, the liquid mixture
supplying device supplies the liquid mixture containing the medium
liquid and the emulsification/dispersion material to the liquid
mixture pressurizing device. The liquid mixture pressurizing device
pressurizes the liquid mixture supplied by the liquid mixture
supplying device and discharges the pressurized liquid mixture to
the emulsification/dispersion device. The emulsification/dispersion
device is adapted to receive the pressurized liquid mixture
discharged by the liquid mixture pressurizing device and generate a
jet flow of the liquid mixture by transforming pressure energy of
the liquid mixture to kinetic energy (motion energy) so as to
emulsify/disperse the emulsification/dispersion material in the
liquid mixture into the medium liquid in the liquid mixture by
means of the shearing force generated by the jet flow to produce
the emulsified/dispersed liquid and discharge the
emulsified/dispersed liquid to the multistage pressure/temperature
control device. The multistage pressure/temperature control device
is adapted to receive the emulsified/dispersed liquid discharged by
the emulsification/dispersion device and control temperature of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid while lowering the pressure of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid gradually or in stages, and
simultaneously to apply a backpressure to the emulsified/dispersed
liquid in the emulsification/dispersion device.
[0010] In the system for manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed
liquid, the multistage pressure/temperature control device includes
first to third controllers which are arranged in series from the
upstream side to the downstream side with respect to a direction of
a flow of the emulsified/dispersed liquid. Each of the first to
third controllers has a shell (or outer tube) through which a heat
transfer medium passes and a heat transfer tube arranged in the
shell, through which the emulsified/dispersed liquid passes. The
heat transfer tubes of the first to third controllers are connected
to one another in series. The inner diameters, total lengths and
general shapes or piping configurations of the heat transfer tubes
of the first to third controllers are designed on the basis of the
flow rate and viscosity (or temperature) of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid in the heat transfer tubes during the
operation of the system so as to satisfy the relationship of
.DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2. In the
above-mentioned relation, .DELTA.P.sub.1, .DELTA.P.sub.2 and
.DELTA.P.sub.3 are amounts of pressure drops in the heat transfer
tubes of the first to third controllers, respectively.
[0011] In the system for manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed
liquid according to the present invention, the inner diameters,
total lengths and general shapes of the heat transfer tubes of the
first to third controllers may be designed in such a manner that
the emulsified/dispersed liquid flows in a laminar state (for
example, Reynolds number of 100-2000) within the heat transfer
tubes. Meanwhile, the inner diameters, total lengths and general
shapes of the heat transfer tubes of the first to third controllers
may be designed in such a manner that the emulsified/dispersed
liquid flows in a turbulent state (for example, Reynolds number of
3000-50000) within the heat transfer tubes.
[0012] The system for manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed liquid
according to the present invention may include a heat exchanger for
heating or cooling the liquid mixture, which is arranged between
the liquid mixture supplying device and the liquid mixture
pressurizing device with respect to the direction of the flow of
the emulsified/dispersed liquid. In this case, the liquid mixture
supplying device may include a liquid mixture pump for pressurizing
and feeding the liquid mixture to the liquid mixture pressurizing
device through the heat exchanger.
[0013] In the system for manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed
liquid according to the present invention, the
emulsification/dispersion device may include first to third pore
components (cell with a narrow pore) each of which includes a pore
having a small inner diameter. The first to third pore components
may be arranged in series from the upstream side to the downstream
side with respect to the direction of the flow of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid in such a manner that the pores of the
first to third pore components are connected to one another in
series. In this case, the inner diameters of the pores of the first
to third pore components may be designed so as to satisfy the
relationship of d.sub.2>d.sub.1>d.sub.3. In the
above-mentioned relationship, d.sub.1, d.sub.2 and d.sub.3 are
inner diameters of the pores of the first to third pore
components.
[0014] In the system for manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed
liquid according to the present invention, the
emulsification/dispersion device may be composed of first and
second emulsification/dispersion devices which are connected to
each other in series. In this case, the system may include a first
agent feeder arranged at the downstream side of the first
emulsification/dispersion device, for adding a first additive agent
to the emulsified/dispersed liquid, and a second agent feeder
arranged at the downstream side of the second
emulsification/dispersion device, for adding a second additive
agent to the emulsified/dispersed liquid.
[0015] According to the present invention, because very high
pressure is applied to the liquid mixture by the liquid mixture
pressurizing device, a strong shearing force can be applied to the
liquid mixture in the emulsification/dispersion device.
Accordingly, the emulsification/dispersion material may be
sufficiently atomized without using any surfactant. Moreover,
because the backpressure is applied to the emulsified/dispersed
liquid in the emulsification/dispersion device by the multistage
pressure/temperature control device, occurrence of bubbling in the
emulsification/dispersion device may be prevented. In addition,
because the pressure of the emulsified/dispersed liquid is reduced
gradually or in stages in the multistage pressure/temperature
control device so that rapid or instant pressure drop is not
caused, bubbling is not caused in the emulsified/dispersed liquid
when the emulsified/dispersed liquid is released from the system to
the outside of the system. Meanwhile, the temperature of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid discharged from the system to the
outside of the system can be controlled in a preferable manner. In
consequence, the quality of the emulsified/dispersed liquid as a
product may be improved and further loss of energy may be reduced
so that energy efficiency of the system may be improved.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a system for
manufacturing emulsified/dispersed liquid according to the present
invention.
[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic section view of first or second
emulsification/dispersion device which configures the system for
manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed liquid shown in FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a multistage
pressure/temperature control device which configures the system for
manufacturing the emulsified/dispersed liquid shown in FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a graph which expresses the state of pressure
changes of the emulsified/dispersed liquid within the multistage
pressure/temperature device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0020] From now on, the invention's ways of enforcement will be
explained in details. First, the outline of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid production system of this invention
will be explained. The emulsification/dispersion device
emulsifies/disperses the emulsification/dispersion material by
applying a strong shearing force to the liquid mixture of medium
liquid and liquid or solid form of emulsification/dispersion
material. Generally, if the strong shearing force is applied in an
unbalanced environment (namely, if the liquid mixture's balance of
speed or pressure collapses), then bubbling will occur and the
emulsification/dispersion material particles will become
disproportionate. As a result, excessive amounts of
emulsification/dispersion material particles will be produced.
Conventionally, this invention applies extremely high pressure upon
the liquid mixture in order to prevent bubbling from occurring.
[0021] However, when applying extremely high pressure upon the
liquid mixture, immense amount of energy is used. Therefore, by
equipping the multistage pressure/temperature control device to the
downstream of the emulsification/dispersion device, the
emulsified/dispersed liquid production system of this invention
prevents bubbling from occurring without having to apply extremely
high pressure to the liquid mixture. As a result, the size and/or
the shape of the emulsification/dispersion material particles will
stay similarly the same, while effectively preventing the
production of excessive emulsification/dispersion material
particles and lowering energy usage.
[0022] Concerning the basic technology ideas of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid production system of this invention, if
the outlet of the final product of emulsified/dispersed liquid (in
other words, the position when the established emulsified/dispersed
liquid is released in the atmospheric pressure) is considered the
standard position, then the production system is organized to
prevent pressure-depletion from occurring at the standard point and
causing bubbling to take place. In other words, this invention
places the original idea at the downstream side to support multiple
conditions of injection energy etc. occurring at the upstream side.
In addition, this emulsified/dispersed liquid production system
will have a basic feature of having two devices--the
emulsification/dispersion device that emulsifies/disperses the
emulsification/dispersion material within the medium liquid and the
multistage pressure/temperature control device that prevents
bubbling--tandemly connect to each other.
[0023] The emulsification/dispersion device is made up of tandemly
connected first to third pore components (in the order from
upstream side to the downstream side regarding the
emulsified/dispersed liquid's flow direction) with differing inner
diameter that goes through the seal axially. Also, if the inner
diameters of the first to third pore cells are expressed as
d.sub.1, d.sub.2, d.sub.3 respectively, then this
emulsification/dispersion device has the feature of satisfying the
diameters' relationship of d.sub.2>d.sub.1>d.sub.3.
Furthermore, the structure of this invention has been mentioned,
and will be mentioned from now on as well, to have three pore
components (first to third pore components) for the
emulsification/dispersion device, but the emulsification/dispersion
device can have four or more pore components if desired.
[0024] The multistage pressure/temperature control device consists
of first to third control groups placed tandemly in the order from
upstream side to downstream side of the emulsified/dispersed
liquid's flow direction. For each of the first to third control
group, there is a shell (or an outer pipe) that the heating medium
circulates upon. Located within the shell is a heat-transfer pipe
where the emulsified/dispersed liquid circulates. Each
heat-transfer pipe of the first to third control group is tandemly
connected. In addition, while applying necessary amount of back
pressure in response to the staged emulsification/dispersion
device, the multistage pressure/temperature progressively decreases
the back pressure applied upon each control group. At this point,
first to third control group lowers the pressure of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid to the level that bubbling will not
occur (for example, similar level to atmospheric pressure), while
cooling the liquid to a designated temperature (for example, room
temperature)
[0025] Regarding the multistage pressure/temperature control
device, the inner diameter, overall length, and the general shape
or the pipe form of the first to third control groups are set to
satisfy the relationship between each control groups'
pressure-depletion quantity (expressed as .DELTA.P.sub.1,
.DELTA.P.sub.2, .DELTA.P.sub.3, respectively) as
.DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2, in respect to
the speed (average speed) and viscosity (or temperature) of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid within each heat-transfer pipe.
Furthermore, for each joint of the heat-transfer pipe there is an
area where the tube expands to stop pressure depletion from
occurring before and after the joint. In other words, since the
amount of pressure depletion in the multistage pressure/temperature
control device can be considered as the total amount of pressure
depletion in the three control groups (or the heat-transfer pipe),
the multistage pressure/temperature control device is made to set
up flow resistance level and pressure-depletion quantity in
response to the amount of back pressure required for
emulsification/dispersion device. Even with such system, the level
of flow resistant and/or the amount of pressure depletion is
determined by each of the three heat-transfer pipes' inner diameter
and suitable length, as well as the average speed (of specified
place) and the viscosity or the average temperature (of specified
place).
[0026] In addition, the multistage pressure/temperature control
device is able to control the emulsified/dispersed liquids'
temperature by adjusting the supply temperature and the amount of
the heating medium flowing within each cell of first to third
control groups. For example, by adjusting the amount of heating
medium and coolant that are being drained into each cell, the
temperature of the emulsified/dispersed liquid found within the
multistage pressure/temperature control device or the temperature
of the emulsified/dispersed liquid being ejected from the device
can be cooled to the designated temperature.
[0027] In addition, as the emulsified/dispersed liquids'
temperature is controlled by adjusting the supply temperature and
the flow amount of the heating medium within each cell of first to
third control group, the viscosity of the emulsified/dispersed
liquid, as well as the flow resistance and pressure-depletion
quantity of the heat-transfer pipe can be subordinately controlled.
Certainly, the flow resistance and/or the pressure-depletion
quantity of each heat-transfer pipe located in the first to third
control group can be controlled by the heat-transfer pipes' inner
diameter and the suitable length, as well as the speed of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid located within the each pipe.
[0028] The structure of this invention has been mentioned, and will
be mentioned from now on as well, to have three pore components
(first to third pore components) for the emulsification/dispersion
device, but the emulsification/dispersion device can have four or
more pore components if desired. For example, if the pressure of
the liquid mixture and the pressure within the
emulsification/dispersion device is increased, the multistage
pressure/temperature control device can be arranged to have a first
to fourth control group or a first to fifth control group in order
to prevent bubbling from occurring. These control groups can be set
to slow the degree of change of the gradual pressure-depletion
within the multistage pressure/temperature control device.
[0029] The multistage pressure/temperature control device of this
invention can be applied to both rotational type and high-pressured
type of the emulsification/dispersion device. In both of these
cases, the multistage pressure/temperature control is still able to
prevent bubbling by applying necessary back pressure to the
emulsification/dispersion device. At the same time, the multistage
pressure/temperature control device is able to gradually lower this
back pressure to the similar level as atmospheric pressure. This
prevents the emulsified/dispersed liquid from bubbling when
released under atmospheric pressure.
[0030] From now on, emulsified/dispersed liquid production system's
structure, as well as function, will be explained in details while
referring to the attached drawings.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, an emulsified/dispersed liquid
production system S includes (in the order from upstream to the
downstream) a liquid mixture supplying tank 1, a liquid mixture
sending pump 2, a heat-exchanger 3, a liquid mixture pressurizing
pump 4, a first emulsification/dispersion device 5, a first
additive supply port 6, a second emulsification/dispersion device
7, a second additive supply port 8, and a multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9, in regards to the flow
direction of the liquid mixture (raw material) or the
emulsified/dispersed liquid (final product).
[0032] The liquid mixture supplying tank 1 is accumulated with a
liquid mixture of a medium liquid (for example, water) and a liquid
or solid form of emulsification/dispersion material that does not
dissolve in the medium liquid. The drawing does not show the
details, but there is a churning machine attached to the liquid
mixture supplying tank 1. This machine ordinarily churns the liquid
mixture to macroscopically distribute the emulsification/dispersion
material equally within the medium liquid. The
"emulsification/dispersion material" mentioned here is the material
that will be emulsified or dispersed within the medium liquid.
[0033] The liquid mixture in the liquid mixture supplying tank 1,
under designated flow quantity and with the help of the liquid
mixture sending pump 2, travels through the heat exchanger in order
to supply the liquid mixture pressurizing pump 4. The heat
exchanger 3 uses an appropriate heat-transfer medium, such as
steam, hot water (for example, 80-100.degree. C.), hot mineral oil
(for example, 100-500.degree. C.) etc, to heat the liquid mixture
to a designated temperature that best suits to emulsify/disperse
the emulsification/dispersion material in the water. As for the
heat exchanger 3, for example, a double-piped heat exchanger, a
coil-typed heat exchanger, a plate-type heat exchanger etc. can be
used as well. Also, depending on the situation, the heat exchanger
will cool the liquid mixture, rather than to heat it. In this case,
for a heat-transfer medium, cold water (for example, 0-5.degree.
C.), cold refrigerant (for example, -20-0.degree. C.) etc. can be
used. If there is no need to adjust the temperature of the liquid
mixture, then the heat exchanger 3 can be removed.
[0034] The liquid mixture pressurizing pump 4 applies pressure, for
example 30-300 MPa (300-3000 bar), to the supplied liquid mixture
that traveled through the heat exchanger 3 from the liquid mixtures
sending pump 2. Then, the liquid mixture pressurizing pump 4 ejects
the liquid mixture to the downstream side. Afterwards, the
high-pressured liquid mixture ejected from the liquid mixture
pressurizing pump 4 is sent to the first emulsification/dispersion
device 5 while maintaining its high pressure. The first
emulsification/dispersion device 5, later explained in details,
uses the liquid/liquid's shear (created by the jet stream) to
produce emulsified/dispersed liquid by emulsifying/dispersing the
emulsification/dispersion material within the medium liquid. Then,
the resulting emulsified/dispersed liquid is ejected to the
downstream side. If a portion of the emulsification/dispersion
material did not emulsify/disperse in the medium liquid, the
emulsification/dispersion material will be fully
emulsified/dispersed by the second emulsification/dispersion device
7 (later explained). The "emulsified/dispersed liquid" mentioned
here is the liquid that has a to-be-emulsified and/or
to-be-dispersed material emulsifying or dispersing within the
medium liquid (emulsion, suspension etc).
[0035] The emulsified/dispersed liquid ejected from the first
emulsification/dispersion device 5 travels through the first
additive supply port 6 and is sent to the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7. At the first additive supply
port 6, a designated the first additive supply is added to the
emulsified/dispersed liquid. The first additive supply can be one
type or multiple types of additive supply. Because the
emulsified/dispersed liquid within the first additive supply port 6
is high-pressured, the first additive supply is inserted in the
port with pressure (not shown). If not necessary, the first
additive supply does not have to be added to the
emulsified/dispersed liquid.
[0036] Then, the emulsified/dispersed liquid with the added first
additive supply is ejected from the first additive supply port 6,
and is sent to the second emulsification/dispersion device 7. The
second emulsification/dispersion device 7 is responsible for using
the same procedure as the first emulsification/dispersion device 5
(using the liquid/liquid's shear to produce emulsified/dispersed
liquid by emulsifying/dispersing the emulsification/dispersion
material within the medium liquid) to fully emulsifying or
dispersing the emulsification/dispersion material within the
emulsified/dispersed liquid received from the first
emulsification/dispersion device 5, and later ejecting the liquid
to the downstream side. If the received emulsified/dispersed liquid
has fully emulsified or dispersed emulsification/dispersion
materials by the first emulsification/dispersion device 5, then the
second emulsification/dispersion device 7 can be removed.
[0037] The emulsified/dispersed liquid ejected from the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7 travels through the second
additive supply port 8 and is sent to the multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9. At the second additive
supply port 8, a designated second additive supply is added to the
emulsified/dispersed liquid. The second additive supply can be one
type or multiple types of additive supply. Because the
emulsified/dispersed liquid within the second additive supply port
8 is high-pressured, the second additive supply is inserted in the
port with pressure (not shown). If not necessary, the second
additive supply does not have to be added to the
emulsified/dispersed liquid.
[0038] Then, the emulsified/dispersed liquid with the added the
second additive supply is ejected from the second additive supply
port 8, and is sent to the multistage pressure/temperature control
device. Later explained in details, the multistage
pressure/temperature control device applies a designated back
pressure to the emulsified/dispersed liquid within the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7 and the emulsified/dispersed
liquid within the first emulsification/dispersion device 5, and
prevents bubbling from occurring within both the first
emulsification/dispersion device 5 and the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7. At the same time, the produced
emulsified/dispersed liquid's pressure is progressively lowered,
and the pressure of the emulsified/dispersed liquid at the exit
area of the multistage pressure/temperature control device is
lowered to be similarly the same as the atmospheric pressure. This
prevents bubbling from taking place when the emulsified/dispersed
liquid is released into the atmospheric pressure.
[0039] FIG. 2 schematically shows the structure of the first
emulsification/dispersion device 5. Because the structure, as well
as function, of the second emulsification/dispersion device is
substantially the same as the first emulsification/dispersion
device shown in FIG. 2, only the structure and function of the
first emulsification/dispersion device will be explained from now
on (in order to avoid repetition). As shown in FIG. 2, the first
emulsification/dispersion device 5 is tandemly connected with one
another. The device includes a nozzle component 11, a cylinder
passageway component 12, and a body section of the shortened column
13.
[0040] Here, the center axis the nozzle component 11, the
passageway component 12, and the body section 13 are all aligned
with each other, creating a center axis common to all three
components. The body section 13 is equipped with the first pore
component 14, the second pore component 15, and the third pore
component 16 (collectively expressed as the first to third pore
components 14-16) lined in order from upstream side to downstream
side, in regards to the flow direction (in FIG. 2, the right
direction) of the liquid or emulsified/dispersed liquid. Each of
the first to third pore components 14-16 includes a cylinder, a
first pore 17, a second pore 18, and a third pore 19 (collectively
expressed as first to third pores 17-19) that penetrates through
the first to third pore components 14-16 in the direction of the
center axis of each pore component. The first to third pore
components 14-16 are reciprocally connected by going through the
ring-shaped seal component 20.
[0041] If the inner diameters of the first to third pores 17-19 of
the first to third pore components 14-16 are expressed as d.sub.1,
d.sub.2, and d.sub.3, then the diameters are set to satisfy the
relationship of d.sub.2>d.sub.1>d.sub.3. The inner diameter
of the cylinder passageway component 12 is set to be greater than
d.sub.2. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the passageway
component 12 can be the same as d.sub.2. Also, the inner diameter
of each of the seal component 20 is set to be greater than d.sub.2.
In response to the liquid mixture's or the emulsified/dispersed
liquid's condition, the inner diameters of the first to third pore
components 14-16 are preferably set between the range of 0.4-4 mm,
and the lengths to be between 4.about.40 mm. Again in response to
the liquid mixture's or the emulsified/dispersed liquid's
condition, the inner diameters of nozzle component 11 are
preferably set between the range of 0.1-0.5 mm, and the lengths to
be between 1-4 mm. The seal component 20's inner diameter is
preferably set within the range of 2-8 mm.
[0042] Regarding the first emulsification/dispersion device 5, the
relatively narrow first pore component 13 or the first pore 17
applies a designated back pressure to the liquid mixture found
within relatively wide passageway component 12. Also, the most
narrow third pore component 16 or third pore 19 applies a
designated back pressure to the liquid mixture or the
emulsified/dispersed liquid found within the most wide second pore
component 15 or second pore component 18. As explained before, the
inner diameter of the ring-shaped seal component 20 is greater than
d.sub.2 (the inner diameter of the most wide second pore component
15 or second pore component 18). Therefore, by instantaneously
relaxing the pressure of the liquid mixture or the
emulsified/dispersed liquid, each of the first to third pore
components 14-16 is able to produce an individualized
pressure-depletion system.
[0043] The first emulsification/dispersion device 5 is capable of
applying adequate amount of back pressure to prevent bubbling from
occurring as a result of the strongest shearing force produced by
passageway component 12. Also, the most narrow third pore component
16 or third pore 19 applies back pressure (that does not cause
bubbling due the relaxation) in response to the widest second pore
component 15's pressure-relaxation. Furthermore, the inner diameter
of the cylinder-shaped connective component 21--a communicating
tube at the downstream side of the third pore component 16 that
connects to the first additive supply port 6--is sufficiently
larger than d.sub.3 (inner diameter of the third pore component 16
or the third pore 19).
[0044] The liquid mixture that has been applied high pressure, such
as 30-300 MPa (300-3000 bar), due to the liquid mixture
pressurizing pump 4 is converted into a high-speed jet stream, and
is sprayed into the passageway component 12. Then, the jet stream
sprayed into the passageway component 12 adds a strong shearing
force to the surrounding liquid mixture, and causes the
emulsification/dispersion material to emulsify/disperse. Later, the
liquid mixture's jet stream flows into the first to third pore
components 14-16, while losing kinetic energy. Afterwards, the jet
stream adds a strong shearing force to the liquid mixture existing
within first to third pore components 14-16, and causes the
emulsification/dispersion material to emulsify/disperse.
[0045] The first to third pore components 14-16 include pores with
small diameter that gradually loses kinetic energy (for example,
shear energy and heat energy). This kinetic energy is converted
from the kinetic energy of the liquid mixtures' jet stream as a
result of liquid/liquid's shear existing between the jet stream and
the surrounding liquid mixture. Setting up the inner diameter and
the stage number of first to third pore components 14-16 or first
to third pores 17-19 are significantly important in producing a
powerful emulsification or dispersion without producing
bubbles.
[0046] Because high pressure is applied to the liquid mixture due
to the liquid mixture pressurizing pump 4, the first
emulsification/dispersion device 5 and the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7 (collectively written as first
and second emulsification/dispersion device 5, 7) is able to apply
strong shearing forces to the liquid mixture, and thoroughly
atomize the emulsification/dispersion material. Also, bubbling is
prevented from taking place within first and second
emulsification/dispersion device 5, 7 because the multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9 (explained later) applies
back pressure to first and second emulsification/dispersion device
5, 7.
[0047] The first to third pore components 14-16 shown in FIG. 2 is
individually structured by a single cylindrical component with
differing inner diameter. However, each of the first to third pore
components 14-16 can be structured with multiple (for example, 2-3)
cylindrical components. In this case, each of the pore components
14-16 should preferably have seal component 20 between each
cylindrical component.
[0048] FIG. 2 schematically, shows the structure of the multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9. The multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9 receives the
emulsified/dispersed liquid that came from second
emulsification/dispersion device 7 and traveled through the second
additive supply port 8. Then, the multistage pressure/temperature
control device 9 progressively lowers the pressure of the received
emulsified/dispersed liquid, and at the same time, applies back
pressure to the emulsified/dispersed liquid within the first and
second emulsification/dispersion device 5, 7. Also, the multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9 cools the heated
emulsified/dispersed liquid (due to emulsification/dispersion
caused by shearing force) to a designated temperature, such as room
temperature (20-30.degree. C.).
[0049] As shown in FIG. 3, the multistage pressure/temperature
control device is equipped with tandemly connected first to third
control groups 23-25, in the order from the upstream side to the
downstream side according to the emulsified/dispersed liquids' flow
direction (in FIG. 3, the right direction). The first control group
23 consists of a first shell 26 where the coolant (heating medium)
circulates. Located within this first shell 26 is a first
heat-transfer pipe 29 where the emulsified/dispersed liquid
circulates. The second control group 24 includes a second shell 27
where the coolant circulates. Located within this second shell 27
is a second heat-transfer pipe 30 where the emulsified/dispersed
liquid circulates. The third control group 25 consists of a third
shell 28 where the coolant circulates. Located within this third
shell 28 is a third heat-transfer pipe 31 where the
emulsified/dispersed liquid circulates.
[0050] Regarding the multistage pressure/temperature control device
9, the crosscut of the first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 is
circular and is tandemly connected with each other while going
through a communication component 35. Furthermore, the edge of the
first heat-transfer pipe 29 on the upstream side (referring to the
emulsified/dispersed liquid's flow direction) and the edge of the
third heat-transfer pipe 31 on the downstream side goes through the
communication component 35, and the edges are connected to the pipe
located in the upstream side and the downstream side,
respectively.
[0051] Regarding the multistage pressure/temperature control
device, the inner diameter, overall length, and the general shape
or the pipe form (piping, configuration) of the first to third
heat-transfer pipes 29-31 are set to satisfy the relationship
between each pipes' pressure-depletion quantity (expressed as
.DELTA.P.sub.1, .DELTA.P.sub.2, .DELTA.P.sub.3, respectively) as
.DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2, with speed,
viscosity, and density of the emulsified/dispersed liquid within
each heat-transfer pipe in consideration. In other words, to
produce an emulsified/dispersed liquid with desired quality and
composition, the inner diameter, overall length, and the general
shape or the pipe form of first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31
must be chosen after setting the speed, viscosity, and density of
the emulsified/dispersed liquid within each heat-transfer pipe to
the favorable condition.
[0052] The idea of setting of .DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3 of the
first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 to satisfy the
relationship of .DELTA.P.sub.1>P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2 is
based off of the experiment result given by the inventor, after
combining various pressure-depletion values of first to third
heat-transfer pipes 29-31 and testing whether or not bubbling
occurs. From this experiment, the preferable combination of
pressure-depletion values will not cause bubbling only if the above
conditions are satisfied. If not satisfied, then bubbling will
occur as proven in the experiment.
[0053] As explained before, the inner diameter, overall length, and
the general shape or the pipe form of the first to third
heat-transfer pipes 29-31 are set to satisfy the relationship of
.DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2, in respect to
speed, viscosity, and density of the emulsified/dispersed liquid
within each heat-transfer pipe. Along with this way of finding
.DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3, the technique explained below can be
used to calculate or estimate the pressure-depletion values.
<If the Emulsified/Dispersed Liquid is in a Laminar Flow>
[0054] First, the method of calculating the
.DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3 when the emulsified/dispersed liquid
is flowing as a laminar flow within the first to third
heat-transfer pipes 29-31 will be explained. In this case, if the
inner diameter of first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 is
expressed as D.sub.1-D.sub.3, the suitable length as
Le.sub.1-Le.sub.2, the flow speed of the emulsified/dispersed
liquid within first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 as
U.sub.1-U.sub.3, the emulsified/dispersed liquid's viscosity as
.mu..sub.1-.mu..sub.3, and the gravity conversion factor as g (9.8
kgm/Kgsec.sup.2), each of the pressure-depletion quantity
.DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3 can be calculated using the
Hagen-Poiseuille equation written below.
.DELTA.P.sub.1=32U.sub.1Le.sub.1.mu..sub.1/(gD.sub.1.sup.2)
equation 1
.DELTA.P.sub.2=32U.sub.2Le.sub.2.mu..sub.2/(gD.sub.2.sup.2)
equation 2
.DELTA.P.sub.3=32U.sub.3Le.sub.3.mu..sub.3/(gD.sub.3.sup.2)
equation 3
[0055] The "suitable length Le" mentioned above is the length of
the pipe that causes the same amount of pressure-depletion or
pressure-loss as the various form of heat-transfer pipe, and has
the same inner diameter as the heat-transfer pipe (the same applies
for when the emulsified/dispersed liquid flows turbulently). In
other words, this invention is made so that the Hagen-Poiseuille
equation can be used, even if various type of heat-transfer pipe
with various types of pipe joints and various shapes exist, just by
replacing (identifying) it with a pipe that causes the same amount
of pressure-depletion or pressure-loss. The calculation of the
"suitable length" of the various-shaped pipe or pipe joint will
only be explained briefly because the method of calculation is well
know to this company. If the cross-section of the first to third
heat-transfer pipes 29-31 is not circular (for example, oval,
square, rectangle etc.), use the equation "4.times.cross-sectional
area/wetted perimeter" to find the suitable diameter, in place of
the inner diameter D.sub.1-D.sub.3 (the same applies for when the
emulsified/dispersed liquid flows turbulently).
[0056] When emulsified/dispersed liquid is flowing in a laminar
flow within the first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 (namely,
when the Reynolds number is roughly below 2300), the
pressure-depletion or pressure-loss quantity of the first to third
heat-transfer pipes 29-31 can be calculated by using the equations
1-3 (Hagen-Poiseuille), regardless of the roughness of the
heat-transfer pipe's surface. Furthermore, if the
emulsified/dispersed liquid's viscosity .mu. is 3.6 kg/mhr (1
centipoise), the density .rho. is 1000 kg/m.sup.3, the flow speed U
is 1800 m/hr (0.5 m/sec), and the heat-transfer pipe's inner
diameter D is 0.002 m (2 mm), then the Reynolds number of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid found within the heat-transfer pipe
will be 1000 (as shown below); therefore, the emulsified/dispersed
liquid's flow is a laminar flow.
Re=DU.rho./.mu.=0.002.times.1800.times.1000/3.6=1000
[0057] If the emulsified/dispersed liquid will flow in a laminar
flow within the first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31, the
emulsified/dispersed liquid's temperature, flow speed, density, and
viscosity must be set first. Then, while using equations 1-3 to
find the pressure-depletion quantities
.DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3 that satisfies the relationship
.DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2, determine the
inner diameter, overall length, and general shape or the pipe form
of first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31.
<If the Emulsified/Dispersed Liquid Flows Turbulently>
[0058] Next, the method of calculating the
.DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3 when the emulsified/dispersed liquid
flows turbulently within the first to third heat-transfer pipes
29-31 will be explained. In this case, if first to third
heat-transfer pipes 29-31 are smooth pipes, the pressure depletion
quantity .DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3 can each be calculated using
Karman-Nikuradse equation (written below as equations 4-6). For
each of the first to third heat-transfer pipe 29-31 of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid production system S, smooth pipes are
used (for example, a smooth stainless steel pipe, copper pipe etc.
with an inner surface that has the same roughness as a glass
pipe).
.DELTA.P.sub.1=4f.sub.1[.rho..sub.1U.sub.1.sup.2/(2g)](Le.sub.1/D.sub.1)
equation 4 [0059] However, 1/f.sub.1.sup.0.5=4log
[(D.sub.1U.sub.1.rho..sub.1/.mu..sub.1)f.sub.1.sup.0.5]-0.4
[0059]
.DELTA.P.sub.2=4f.sub.2[.rho..sub.2U.sub.2.sup.2/(2g)](Le.sub.2/D-
.sub.2) equation 5 [0060] However, 1/f.sub.2.sup.0.5=4log
[(D.sub.2U.sub.2.rho..sub.2/.mu..sub.2)f.sub.2.sup.0.5]-0.4
[0060]
.DELTA.P.sub.3=4f.sub.3[.rho..sub.3U.sub.3.sup.2/(2g)](Le.sub.3/D-
.sub.3) equation 4 [0061] However, 1/f.sub.3.sup.0.5=4log
[(D.sub.3U.sub.3.rho..sub.3/.mu..sub.3)f.sub.3.sup.0.5]-0.4
[0062] In equations 4-6, .rho..sub.1-.rho..sub.3 refers to the
density of the emulsified/dispersed liquid flowing within first to
third heat-transfer pipes 29-31. Also, f.sub.1-f.sub.3 refers to
the coefficient of friction of first to third heat-transfer pipes
29-31. Because first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 are smooth
pipes, f.sub.1-f.sub.3 are the Reynolds numbers. The other symbols
of this equation have the same meaning as equations 1-3 (when the
emulsified/dispersed liquid is flowing in a laminar flow).
[0063] When emulsified/dispersed liquid is flowing turbulently
within the first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 (namely, when
the Reynolds number is roughly over 2300), the pressure-depletion
or pressure-loss quantity of the first to third heat-transfer pipes
29-31 can be calculated by using the equations 4-6
(Karman-Nikuradse), as long as the heat-transfer pipe is smooth.
Furthermore, if the emulsified/dispersed liquid's viscosity .mu. is
3.6 kg/mhr (1 centipoise), the density .rho. is 1000 kg/m.sup.3,
the flow speed U is 3600 m/hr (1 m/sec), and the heat-transfer
pipe's inner diameter D is 0.003 m (3 mm), then the Reynolds number
of the emulsified/dispersed liquid found within the heat-transfer
pipe will be 3000 (as shown below); therefore, the
emulsified/dispersed liquid flows turbulently.
Re=DU.rho./.mu.=0.003.times.3600.times.1000/3.6=3000
[0064] If the emulsified/dispersed liquid flows turbulently within
the first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31, the
emulsified/dispersed liquid's temperature, flow speed, density, and
viscosity must be set first. Then, while using equations 1-3 to
find the pressure-depletion quantities
.DELTA.P.sub.1-.DELTA.P.sub.3 that satisfies the relationship
.DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>.DELTA.P.sub.2, determine the
inner diameter, overall length, and general shape or the pipe form
of the first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31.
[0065] As explained previously regarding multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9, the inner diameter, overall
length, and the general shape or the pipe form of the first to
third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 are favorably determined to satisfy
the relationship of .DELTA.P.sub.1>.DELTA.P.sub.3>P.sub.2,
with speed, viscosity, and density of the emulsified/dispersed
liquid within each heat-transfer pipe in consideration. In this
enforcement method, the heat-transfer pipe 29 and the second
heat-transfer pipe 30 are coil-shaped pipe (spiraled pipe).
[0066] In order to maximize the pressure-depletion quantity
.DELTA.P.sub.1, the inner diameter of the first heat-transfer pipe
29 is relatively small, the overall length of the pipe is
relatively long, the coil's diameter is relatively small, and the
coil pitch is relatively small: In other words, the first
heat-transfer pipe 29 is a coil-shaped pipe that has a small
diameter and is closely winded. On the other hand, in order to
minimize the pressure-depletion quantity .DELTA.P.sub.2, the inner
diameter of the second heat-transfer pipe 30 is relatively large,
the overall length of the pipe is relatively short, the coil's
diameter is relatively small, and the coil pitch is relatively
small. In other words, the second heat-transfer pipe 29 is a
coil-shaped pipe that has a large diameter and is sparsely
winded.
[0067] The third heat-transfer pipe 31 has a pipe with a general
shape or pipe form of rectangular waves (repeated rectangular
roughness). Also, as shown in the magnified view in FIG. 3, the
third heat-transfer pipe 31 is structured assembly by the multiple
straight pipes 37, all connected at the corner using 90.degree.
elbow 38. Here, the inner diameter of the straight pipe 37 and the
shape of 90.degree. elbow 38 are set so that the pressure-depletion
quantity of third heat-transfer pipe 31, .DELTA.P.sub.3, is smaller
than first heat-transfer pipe 29's. .DELTA.P.sub.1, yet greater
than second heat-transfer pipe 30's. .DELTA.P.sub.2. Furthermore,
the third heat-transfer pipe 31 can be broken down into parts and
can easily be cleaned.
[0068] A sample of the measurements and overall shape of first to
third heat-transfer pipes 29-31 is written below.
<First Heat-Transfer Pipe>
TABLE-US-00001 [0069] Inner Diameter D.sub.1 1 mm Overall Length
L.sub.1 5 m Suitable Length Le.sub.1 6 m Overall Shape Coil-shaped
(spiral) Coil's diameter: 50 mm Coil pitch: 15 mm
<Second Heat-Transfer Pipe>
TABLE-US-00002 [0070] Inner Diameter D.sub.2 3 mm Overall Length
L.sub.2 3 m Suitable Length Le.sub.2 3.5 m Overall Shape
Coil-shaped (spiral) Coil's diameter: 100 mm Coil pitch: 30 mm
<First Heat-Transfer Pipe>
TABLE-US-00003 [0071] Inner Diameter D.sub.1 2 mm Overall Length
L.sub.1 4 m Suitable Length Le.sub.1 4.5 m Overall Shape
Rectangular waves 1 rectangle's width: 10 mm 1 rectangle's length:
20 mm
[0072] In FIG. 4, a sample of the positional pressure change of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid within first to third control groups
23-25 (first to third heat-transfer pipe 29.about.31) of the
multistage pressure/temperature control device is shown. Within the
multistage pressure/temperature control device (as shown in FIG.
4), the emulsified/dispersed liquid's pressure is gradually
decreasing, and by the end of the third control group 25 (third
heat-transfer pipe 31), the pressure has become the same or nearly
the same as atmospheric pressure. Like this, the pressure within
the multistage pressure/temperature control device does not
suddenly or instantaneously decrease, due to the gradual
pressure-depletion. For this reason, when the emulsified/dispersed
liquid is ejected out of the emulsified/dispersed liquid production
system S, bubbling does not occur within the emulsified/dispersed
liquid. At the same time, the temperature of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid being drained from the production
system is favorably controlled. As a result, the quality of the
emulsified/dispersed liquid product can be improve, while
increasing energy efficiency and reducing energy loss.
[0073] While setting a required amount of back pressure--amount
that prevents bubbling from taking place--for the first and second
emulsification/dispersion devices 5, 7, the multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9 is able to progressively
lower this back pressure to a level that bubbling will not occur
when exposed to the atmosphere. At this time, by favorably
combining the inner diameter or the suitable inner diameter,
overall length (pipe's length) or the suitable length, and the
overall shape of first to third heat-transfer pipes 29-31, the
heat-transfer pipes are able to withstand (with a high degree of
freedom) the back pressure or the pressure-depletion level of the
back pressure.
[0074] For the emulsified/dispersed liquid production system S,
water or other various types of medium liquid (for example,
methanol, ethanol, or liquid mixture of both etc.) can be used.
Also, the medium liquid in critical conditions can be used to
emulsify or disperse the emulsification/dispersion materials. For
example, if the medium liquid is water and the
emulsification/dispersion material is a lecithin of
glycerophospholipid, the emulsification/dispersion material can be
emulsified or dispersed with the following process.
[0075] First, pour in a designated amount of water, lecithin, and
other necessary additive supply into the churning machine to be
churned. Afterwards, a liquid mixture with equally distributed
corpuscles of lecithin and the additive supply is prepared
macroscopically within the medium liquid (in this case, water).
Then, the liquid mixture travels through the heat exchanger 3 with
a designated amount of flow (due to pressure-sending, pump 2), and
is supplied to the liquid mixture pressurizing pump 4. At this
point, due to the heat exchanger 3 and the liquid mixture
pressurizing pump 4, the liquid mixture is heated above the water's
(medium liquid) critical temperature of 374.2.degree. C. (for
example, 400.degree. C.), and is pressurized above the water's
critical pressure of 218.4 atmospheric pressure (for example, 1,000
atmospheric pressure), in order to make the liquid mixture into
critical condition.
[0076] The liquid mixture in critical condition is now supplied to
both of the first emulsification/dispersion device 5 and the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7. Furthermore, if needed, a
designated additive supply is added to the liquid mixture from the
first and second additive supply device 6, 8. Because the
water--the medium liquid--is in critical condition, the
water-insoluble emulsification/dispersion material of lecithin etc.
is easily emulsified or dispersed in water. With this condition,
the liquid mixture is sprayed into both first
emulsification/dispersion device 5 and the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7. Due to the strong shearing
force resulting from the spray, the emulsification/dispersion of
the water-insoluble emulsification/dispersion material of lecithin
etc. has been accelerated. For this reason, the water-insoluble
emulsification/dispersion material of lecithin etc. can be
emulsified or dispersed in the water without using surfactants.
[0077] Because back pressure will be applied (due to the multistage
pressure/temperature control device 9) to the high temperature and
high-pressured liquid mixture or emulsified/dispersed liquid
located inside both first emulsification/dispersion device 5 and
the second emulsification/dispersion device 7, bubbling does not
occur within these two emulsification/dispersion devices. Inside
the multistage pressure/temperature control device 9, the
emulsified/dispersed liquid ejected from the second
emulsification/dispersion device 7 is cooled to the designated
temperature (for example, room temperature), and the pressure is
lowered gradually to the designated pressure (for example,
atmospheric pressure). Because the emulsified/dispersed liquid is
cooled and the pressure is gradually lowered, bubbling does not
occur when the emulsified/dispersed liquid is located inside the
multistage pressure/temperature control device 9, as well as when
it is ejected out of the device. In addition, after a strong
shearing force is applied to the liquid mixture in critical
condition, the liquid maintains a favorable condition, and the
final product is produced without the occurrence of bubbling.
[0078] As written above, this invention of the emulsified/dispersed
liquid production system that makes use of the multistage
pressure/temperature control device is useful for
emulsified/dispersed liquids requiring a very strong shearing
force, and can be used for homogenizers etc.
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